Preparation Work Continues on Virgin Fire (Santa Fe NF)

Jemez Springs, NM – Aug. 14, 2016 – For Immediate Release. Minimal fire activity was observed on the Virgin Fire in the last 24 hours due in part to higher humidity. The fire continues to slowly creep and smolder and is now 78 acres.

Fire crews completed preparing a significant amount of fire line yesterday in anticipation of firing operations that may begin Monday. Fire line work will continue today as crews wait for a drying trend which is forecasted to move in this afternoon.

There are currently no fire restrictions and public recreational areas on the Jemez Ranger District are not affected by the Virgin Fire and are open. Although there are no road closures around the fire, the public is asked to avoid the north end of Forest Road (FR) 376 up to FR 604 and Virgin Mesa area due to heavy firefighter traffic and narrow road conditions. Caution is also advised while driving along Highway 4 and Highway 126.

Once firing operations begin, expect an increase of visible smoke. Smoke from the Virgin Fire may be visible from NM Highway 4, US Route 550, the Pueblo of Jemez, Gilman, Bernalillo, Albuquerque, and Jemez Springs. Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found online at the New Mexico Department of Health’s website at https://nmtracking.org/fire.